Casa Velas and Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit offer distinct yet beautifully complementary experiences, showcasing the vibrant spirit of Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit. Together, they create a seamless journey of relaxation, adventure, and celebration, perfect for a single trip where you can enjoy the best of both worlds. Flying direct from Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta Airport made our journey seamless and set the tone for an incredible getaway.
At Casa Velas, tranquility reigns supreme. Start your day with live music at breakfast, unwind by the expansive pool, and soak in the warmth of a team dedicated to making every moment special. Heather’s birthday became an all-day celebration here, with songs, shots, and so much joy at breakfast. One of our highlights was an exclusive Velas experience: a private tour at AYCYA Raicilla Elaborado Artesanal. This family-owned company, founded in 2018, crafts some of the finest raicilla in the world. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Sierra Madre Mountains, we explored ancestral and artisan distilling techniques guided by a master raicillero, touring both the fields and the factory.
For those seeking pure relaxation, the Tau Beach Club is a must. Lounge in private cabanas, stroll barefoot along the golden sand, and let the gentle rhythm of the waves melt your cares away.
Grand Velas brims with vibrant energy and endless opportunities for adventure. From Frida’s cooking class to karaoke nights, there’s always something to ignite your spirit. Heather’s birthday continued here with a magical dinner at Piaf, complete with cake and more surprises to make the day unforgettable.
One of the most memorable moments was our mixology class on the wraparound balcony of the Family Suite. The sunset views were breathtaking, the drinks were delicious, and the laughter was endless. Heather stole the show with her mixology skills, crafting the best drinks of the evening. Meanwhile, I couldn’t resist adding my own fun twist—hula hooping on the patio as the sun dipped below the horizon, blending movement, joy, and stunning views into one magical moment.
My personal highlight? The award-winning SE Spa at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit. We began our spa journey with the Seven-Step Water Ceremony, a sensory exploration through a sauna, chromotherapy steam room, and hot-and-cold lagoon. Every detail—from the serene atmosphere to the intricate flower petal mandalas—fostered a deep sense of mindfulness. My treatment, the Neeyari Shamanic Massage – Roots of the Earth, drew on ancient indigenous traditions to reconnect me with nature’s grounding energy. Medium pressure and thoughtful techniques guided me toward introspection and emotional renewal. SE Spa creates a meaningful experience designed to nurture your spirit and uplift your soul. We each left with a butterfly symbol, a reminder of transformation and renewal, feeling lighter, centered, and inspired.
Dining at Grand Velas is equally unforgettable, with a variety of restaurants offering culinary delights that cater to every palate. Families will love the lively kids club, while breathtaking ocean views set the stage for unforgettable moments. We laughed so much while I hula hooped not just by the pool but also on our balcony.
What makes a trip to these two resorts so special is how they complement each other. Casa Velas offers a serene, boutique-style escape, while Grand Velas provides a lively, expansive retreat. Together, they create a perfect balance, ensuring every part of your vacation feels complete.
Whether you’re savoring the peaceful elegance of Casa Velas or diving into the dynamic energy of Grand Velas, these resorts promise a journey filled with moments to cherish, experiences to treasure, and memories that will last a lifetime.
WATCH MY VIDEOS to see our entire experience:
Casa Velas: The Beginning
Heather’s birthday extravaganza began at Casa Velas Puerto Vallarta, an all-inclusive boutique hotel. Gorgeous suites, drinks by the pool, and an incredible dinner at Emiliano Restaurant—complete with fire dancers! What an incredible first day!
At Casa Velas, every moment felt magical!
At Casa Velas, every moment felt magical! We loved breakfast outdoors with live music, strolling the beach at Tau Beach Club, relaxing in the fantastic cabanas, and dining at their lovely restaurant at night. Wandering the property, we were serenaded by live music, including an electric violin performance that set the perfect mood. So much beauty, so much music—truly unforgettable!
Exclusive Velas tour at AYCYA Raicilla Elaborado Artesanal
Our Velas experience included an unforgettable private tour at AYCYA Raicilla Elaborado Artesanal, a family-owned and operated company established in 2018 to produce the best raicilla worldwide. #BornWild
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Sierra Madre Mountains, we enjoyed a master racillero’s personal tour through the ancestral and artisan processes in both the factory and the fields. We tasted four incredible raicillas, including an exclusive one that can only be experienced on this tour! From premium wild agave craftsmanship to sustainable practices, every detail was inspiring. We also savored amazing guacamole and special drinks made with fruits from the land. A perfect blend of tradition, flavor, and sustainability!
Casa Velas: Swim, Relax, Hoop, Celebrate!
At Casa Velas, the giant pool was perfect for both swimming laps and lounging in pure relaxation. We also loved breakfast outdoors at Emiliano, complete with special birthday drinks and songs to celebrate! The incredible staff—especially Avalos and Fatima—made our experience unforgettable, bringing music, connection, and so much joy. And by the pool? I hula-hooped and danced to the live music—pure fun and laughter! Refreshing, relaxing, and absolutely gorgeous—Casa Velas was perfect for this special birthday celebration!
Welcome to Grand Velas
Now it’s time for birthday extravaganza resort #2—Grand Velas in Riviera Nayarit! We were blown away by the giant, gorgeous suites with breathtaking pool and ocean views. Highlights included a fun and flavorful cooking class at Frida, a delicious lunch at Azul where Chef Jesus truly took care of us, and the amazing staff who made Heather’s birthday so special. Dinner at Piaf was magical—literally—with a magician adding an extra touch of wonder to the evening. Grand Velas knows how to celebrate in style!
Hula hooping joy at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit!
Pure joy at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit! I couldn’t resist bringing some extra FUN to our stay—I hula hooped by the pool, soaking in the sunshine and good vibes. And why stop there? I even hula hooped on our balcony, surrounded by stunning ocean views.
It was such a playful, happy moment—embracing the simple joys, laughing, and letting go. Sometimes it’s these carefree little bursts of energy that make the best memories!
Spa day bliss at SE Spa at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit!
Spa day bliss! Heather, Selena, and I immersed ourselves in the luxurious and award-winning SE Spa at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit! We began with the serene Seven-Step Water Ceremony—a sensory journey that took us through a sauna, chromotherapy steam room, and a hot-and-cold lagoon. Every detail encouraged deep relaxation, and the intricate flower petal mandalas throughout the spa added to the sense of beauty and mindfulness. Heather indulged in the ultimate Four-Hands Massage, a synchronized masterpiece that left her completely tension-free. I chose the deeply spiritual Neeyari Shamanic Massage – Roots of the Earth, inspired by ancient indigenous tribes. This medium-pressure treatment guided me to reconnect with the Earth’s roots, fostering introspection and emotional renewal. SE Spa isn’t just about luxury—it’s an experience steeped in intention and artistry. Every treatment is designed to nurture your spirit and uplift your soul. We each left carrying a butterfly, a meaningful symbol of transformation and renewal, feeling lighter, more centered, and inspired. This wasn’t just a spa day—it was an unforgettable moment of connection for all of us. Sharing these transformative experiences made it even more meaningful. From the artistic flower petals to the impeccable care, SE Spa truly delivered a one-of-a-kind journey of healing and reconnection.
Sun, Sand, and So Much Fun
Our stay at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit was packed with unforgettable moments. We splashed in the sparkling ocean waves, read by the dazzling three-tiered swimming pool, and shook things up at a mixology class with ocean views. Dinner at Sin Lin delighted us with bold flavors, and the night ended on a high note with karaoke at Koi Bar (guess our go-to song!).
Hooping at Sunset
I couldn’t have dreamed of a better way to celebrate—hula hooping at sunset in the stunning family suite at the top of Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, during a fabulous mixology class! Where should I take my hoop next in 2025? Share your ideas, and let’s keep the fun going. Wishing everyone a Happy New Year filled with playfulness, joy, and unforgettable adventures
Lakers at Crypto for Thanksgiving
Exciting news! During Thanksgiving weekend, I had an unforgettable night with my family cheering for the Lakers at Crypto.com Arena—and witnessing the GOAT LeBron James LIVE. Talk about synchronicity: one of the game’s sponsors was Riviera Nayarit, and now that’s exactly where I’m heading next—PUERTO VALLARTA! From courtside to seaside, stay tuned for the adventure!
